John, Vernon Clyde Age 78, of Chelsea, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 13, 2014. He was the beloved husband of Dianne John to whom he was married for 52 years; devoted father of Ricardo Vernon John and his wife Charlene: Loving grandfather of Brianna. Vernon was the son of the late Dadwar John and Lillian Roberts and brother of Anton Roberts, Stanley Roberts, Yvonne Caldiera, Carol Aquing, Annette Roberts and the late Lawrence Roberts. brother in-law Hosein “Rudy” Ali, Anwar “Ricky” Ali, and sister in-law Dawn Gonsalves. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was educated at Mucurapo Boys School, St. Crispin School and graduated from Fatima College, Trinidad. Upon graduation he was gainfully employed at Trinidad & Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC).
In 1968 he migrated to the United States and settled in Boston Massachusetts where he would spend the next 30 plus years working for the John Hancock Insurance Co, as a Data Processor until retirement.
Vernon was very easygoing and sociable. He had a great love for swimming, horse racing, playing cards and music. He especially loved playing and listening to the steel pan, keyboard and guitar. He was an active member of the Unity Sports and Cultural Club in Dorchester.
During the past several years Vernon had been experiencing several problems with his health. Despite these problems, he remained physically and emotionally strong and persistent through the good and bad days. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.
Services: Calling hours will be held on Thurs., March 20, 2014, from 4-8pm at the Smith Funeral Home, 125 Washington Ave., Chelsea Ma. A funeral service will follow on Friday at 10:30am at the Our Lady of Grace Parish, 59 Nichols Street, Chelsea Ma. A celebration of Vernon's life will be held directly following the burial at the Polish Political Club, 58 Broadway, Chelsea Ma.